Pour-on application method and devices

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to a device for applying a liquid pesticidal formulation to an external surface of a domestic animal, the device comprising an inlet and a plurality of spaced apart outlets, wherein the device is adapted such that when the middle of the device is positioned substantially above the spine of the animal, at least one outlet is positioned substantially above each flank of the animal. The invention also relates to a method for the treatment or prophylaxis of parasitic infestations, including ectoparasitic and/or endoparasitic infestations, of domestic animals comprising topically administering to said animal a pour-on pesticidal formulation to a region of the external surface of an animal extending from one flank to the opposing flank.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a method of application ofpesticidal ‘pour-on’ formulations in respect of domestic animals,particularly sheep. The invention also relates to a device for applyingsuch pesticidal ‘pour-on’ formulations; to a method for the preventionof ectoparasites and/or parasites in domestic animals and to a methodfor the treatment of ectoparasitic and/or parasitic infestations indomestic animals.

[0002] The term ‘domestic animals’ as used herein is defined to includesheep, horses, llamas, alpacas, rabbits, cats, dogs, pigs, goats andcattle. The term ‘pesticidal’ as used herein is defined to mean asubstance for destroying pests and includes but is not limited to anectoparasiticide, an endoparasiticide, a parasiticide, an acaricide, aninsecticide, a bactericide, a fungicide, an anthelmintic agent and anantiviral agent.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Parasites including endoparasites and particularly ectoparasitessuch as lice, ticks, keds, flies, fleas, mites, scab, blowfly and itchmites commonly infect sheep and cattle resulting in poor quality,damaged wool and/or hides with serious consequences to the commercialviability of such primary industry. Such ectoparasites are typicallycontrolled by the topical application of pesticidal formulations basedon such active agents as synthetic pyrethroids and organophosphates.Such methods of topical application include jetting, plunging ordipping, or spotting or pouring-on.

[0004] Pour-on formulations of pesticides or ‘pour-ons’ as they arecommonly known, have long been used to treat or prevent ectoparasiticinfestation in domestic animals, particularly sheep, simply by locallytopically applying a small amount of concentrated pesticidal formulationalong the backline (the spine) of the animal generally in a singleunbroken band extending from behind the ears to the withers.Alternatively, such pour-on formulations can be topically applied indiscrete spots, generally around the neck and ears of the animal andalso on the animal's back for example at the base of its spine.

[0005] Such formulations are typically applied by brushing or rollingon, by syringing or applying with a dosing gun, by using a commerciallyavailable applicator or pump dispenser, or are simply poured onto theback of the animal, typically between the base of the neck and the baseof the tail.

[0006] The mode of efficacy of the ‘pour-on’ application method is basedon the premise that the formulation, even though applied to a small areaof the animal's external body surface, spreads around the animal'sentire body surface, effectively controlling ectoparasites at sites onthe animal distant from the area of localised application. Accordingly,many such ‘pour-on’ formulations are based on particular types ofcarriers which are said to enhance spread of the active agent around theanimal's body. It has also been put forward as a hypothesis that theactive is transmitted over the surface of the animal by diffusionthrough the hair or wool grease (in the case of a sheep). Alternatively,it has also been postulated that the pesticidal formulations worksystemically by passing through the animal's skin into its bloodstream.

[0007] However, from recent studies, it has been noted that afterapplication of a pour-on formulation to the backline of an animal, theformulation migrates poorly from the application site and thereforelargely remains concentrated in a small area of the animal's bodysurface, that is mainly along its back. This results in the presence oflocalised high amounts of pesticide residues in the animal's wool orhair which can be toxic to handlers, and also in the costly practice ofapplying large volumes of the pour-on formulation in an attempt toachieve its uniform distribution around the animal's body. Additionally,many of the solvent systems used in such formulations can damage thehides and skins of the treated animals, particularly when localised inconcentrated amounts. Such poor mobility has been observed incommercially available pesticidal formulations applied to the backlineregardless of the solvent used to enhance the spread of the formulation.Such observations have led to the speculation that the mechanismoperative in the case of ‘pour-ons’ applied to domestic animals is not asystemic mode and nor is it one in which the carrier system determinesthe degree of migration of the active about the animal. However, todate, no evidence as to an alternative mode of action of pour-ons hasbeen put forward.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] It is the object of the present invention to overcome orsubstantially ameliorate at least one of the above disadvantages.

[0009] In particular, it is an object of the present invention toprovide a device for applying a pesticidal formulation to the externalsurface of an animal in order to treat or prevent parasitic infestationsincluding ectoparasitic and/or endoparasitic infestations.

[0010] It is also an object of the present invention to provide a methodof treatment or prevention of parasitic infestations, includingectoparasitic and/or endoparasitic infestations, in domestic animals.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Accordingly, a first aspect of the present invention provides adevice for applying a finished liquid pesticidal formulation to anexternal surface of a domestic animal, the device comprising an inletand a plurality of spaced apart outlets, wherein the device is adaptedsuch that when the middle of the device is positioned substantiallyabove the spine of the animal, at least one outlet is positionedsubstantially above each flank of the animal.

[0012] The term ‘finished’ formulation as used herein is defined toinclude premixed formulations, such as from a large tank or reservoir,as well as aqueous concentrates or concentrated solutions from awettable powder, the concentrates/solutions being held in a smallerreservoir that has an inlet for a hose to provide further water forin-line mixing. In all cases, the formulation is mixed to a finaldeliverable form before reaching the device.

[0013] Typically, the device includes a manifold with a substantiallyhollow interior and the outlets are formed as openings in the manifoldthat are in fluid communication with the interior. The inlet ispreferably a fitting, most preferably a threaded fitting, attached tothe manifold and also in fluid communication with the interior. Themanifold preferably includes an outlet portion having the outletstherein and an inlet portion having the inlet thereon.

[0014] The outlets are preferably holes, preferably in the range fromabout 0.25 mm to 1.5 mm in diameter, most preferably 0.75 mm indiameter, drilled through the wall of the manifold. The diameter of theoutlets will of course be dependent on the viscosity of the finishedformulation, with liquids of low viscosity (thin oily liquids) as wellas those of high viscosity (such as lotions and creams) able to bedelivered through the outlets. The outlets can also be formed in themanifold by mechanical punching. Alternatively, the outlets are fan jetsor other types of spray nozzles, which are preferably screwed into themanifold. The nozzles can be formed from metal, such as brass or othermaterials, such as plastic.

[0015] In one form, the manifold is formed from straight pipe,preferably with sealed ends. The manifold is preferably formed fromsteel, most preferably stainless steel. Other materials, such as plasticand brass, can also be used.

[0016] In another form, the manifold is bent, curved or angled tosubstantially replicate the shape of an animal's back between itsflanks.

[0017] In yet another form, the manifold is length adjustable. Thelength adjustable manifold preferably includes a female portionthreadably connected to a male portion, whereby relative rotation of themale portion relative to the female portion alters the overall length ofthe manifold. Preferably, the length adjustable manifold includes afemale inner portion with a male outer portion at each end. A singleoutlet is preferably provided in the female inner portion and a pair ofoutlets are preferably provided in each of the male outer portions. Theouter portions also desirably include a knurled section for gripping.The length adjustable manifold preferably permits the minimum andmaximum distances between end outlets to be adjusted between 100 mm andabout 900 mm respectively, as such maximum distance may be required whenusing the device to apply a finished formulation to a dairy cow of about600-700 kg and such a minimum distance may be required when using thedevice to apply a formulation to a cat or dog. When using the device onsheep and goats more preferably the minimum and maximum distancesbetween end outlets can be adjusted between 100 mm and about 200 mm.

[0018] The manifold preferably includes at least three outlets. Whenthree outlets are used it is preferable for, when the device ispositioned substantially above the spine of the animal, one outlet to bepositioned substantially above the spine of the animal and one outlet tobe positioned substantially above each flank of the animal.

[0019] Between three and seven outlets are preferably used, mostpreferably five outlets.

[0020] The manifold desirably includes a pair of outlets adjacent theends of the manifold and one or more outlets immediate the end outlets.

[0021] In preferred forms, the spacing (in mm) between successiveoutlets from one end of the manifold to the other are approximately: 15,15, 15, 15, 15, 15; 20, 50, 50, 20; 20, 60, 20, 60, 20; 20, 60, 60, 20;or 40, 75, 75, 40. Longer manifolds, and larger spacing, can be used forlarger animals.

[0022] The preferred minimum and maximum distances between end outletsare 100 mm and 900 mm respectively, more preferably the minimum andmaximum distances are 100 mm and 600 mm respectively, also preferablythe minimum and maximum distances are 100 mm and 400 mm respectively.Such maximum distances ensure that the device can be used on cattle ofvarious sizes, horses llamas, alpacas and pigs. When using the device onsheep and goats the preferred minimum and maximum distances between endoutlets are 100 mm and 200 mm respectively, more preferably the optimaldistance when using the device on sheep and goats being selected fromthe group consisting of 150, 160, 170 and 180 mm. When using the deviceon a dog or cat, the optimal distance may be slightly less, such as inthe order of 100, 120 or 130 mm, depending on the size of the animal.

[0023] While not intending to be limited by theory in any way, thepresent invention is based on the discovery that the more even thedistribution of the active agent at the time of application, the greateris the chance of achieving a high degree of control of parasites,particularly ectoparasites, on domestic animals. Experiments conductedby the present applicant which are discussed in the ‘Examples’ sectionbelow, show that in sheep treated with four different formulations ofzeta-cypermethrin by means of the standard ‘pour-on’ backlineapplication, with each sheep then being isolated, there is littlemovement of the active beyond 2 cm from the point of application evenfourteen (14) days after application. It is therefore speculated thatthe effectiveness of pour-ons to date is in the main due to inter-animalcontact and also physical contact with other objects which animals oftenrub against such as fence posts and trees.

[0024] Accordingly, a second aspect of the present invention provides amethod for the treatment or prophylaxis of parasitic infestations,including ectoparasitic and/or endoparasitic infestations, of domesticanimals comprising topically administering to said animal a pour-onpesticidal formulation to a region of the external surface of an animalextending from one flank to the opposing flank.

[0025] One embodiment of the second aspect of the present inventionprovides a method for the control of external parasites on domesticanimals which comprises a topical application of an effective amount ofa pesticidal formulation to a region of the external surface of ananimal extending from one flank to the opposing flank.

[0026] A third aspect of the present invention provides the use of anendoparasiticide and/or ectoparasiticide for the preparation of apesticidal formulation for the treatment or prophylaxis of parasiticinfestations, including ectoparasitic and/or endoparasitic infestations,of domestic animals comprising topically administering to said animalsaid formulation to a region of the external surface of an animalextending from one flank to the opposing flank.

[0027] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a pesticidalformulation when used in the treatment or prophylaxis of parasiticinfestations, including ectoparasitic and/or endoparasitic infestations,of domestic animals comprising topically administering to said animalsaid formulation to a region of the external surface of an animalextending from one flank to the opposing flank.

[0028] Typically, the wider the region of the animal's surface coveredby the application, the more effective is the pour-on pesticidalformulation as it can then run down the flanks of the animal. Such aregion typically covers the backline of the animal and extends outwardsfrom the backline towards each flank. This is in contrast with the priorart method of applying a pour-on to the backline of an animal as thedorsal midline or backline area is substantially horizontal andtherefore does not allow for movement of the formulation under gravity.In the present invention, because the application of the pesticidalformulation occurs at a width covering the flanks of the animal, thisenables the natural force of gravity to act such that the formulationmigrates down the flanks of an animal so treated thus resulting in agood migratory effect of the formulation. Alternatively, the use ofpressurised application of the pesticidal formulation allows theformulation to be sprayed onto the flanks of the animal.

[0029] Typically in the case of sheep or goats, the area to which theformulation is applied covers approximately 100 to 200 mm on each sideof the backline (or dorsal midline) towards the ventral midline.

[0030] More typically in the case of sheep and goats, the width of theregion covered by the application of the pour-on is between about 100 mmand 400 mm, more typically the width is selected from the groupconsisting of about 140 mm, about 160 mm, about 180 mm or about 200 mm.

[0031] Typically in the case of cattle and horses the area to which theformulation is applied covers approximately 100 to 400 mm on each sideof the backline (or dorsal midline) towards the ventral midline.

[0032] More typically in the case of cattle and horses, the width ofthe, region covered by the application of the pour-on is between about100 mm and 800 mm, more typically the width is selected from the groupconsisting of about 400 mm, about 500 mm, about 600 mm or about 700 mm.

[0033] Typically in the case of pigs the area to which the formulationis applied covers approximately 100 to 400 mm on each side of thebackline (or dorsal midline) towards the ventral midline.

[0034] More typically in the case of pigs, the width of the regioncovered by the application of the pour-on is between about 100 mm and400 mm, more typically the width is selected from the group consistingof about 100 mm, about 200 mm, about 300 mm or about 400 mm.

[0035] Typically in the case of dogs and cats the area to which theformulation is applied covers approximately 50 to 200 mm on each side ofthe backline (or dorsal midline) towards the ventral midline.

[0036] More typically in the case of dogs and cats, the width of theregion covered by the application of the pour-on is between about 40 mmand 400 mm, more typically the width is selected from the groupconsisting of about 60 mm, about 120 mm, about 200 mm or about 300 mm.

[0037] Typically, the formulation is applied simultaneously to theexternal surface of an animal which is bounded by its flanks (or theequivalent body region). Typically, the formulation is not applied tothe entirety of the region of the animal bounded by its flanks orextending across the width at the sacrum. More typically, theformulation is applied in discrete substantially parallel lines in theregion of the animal external body surface which is bounded by itsflanks and more typically the lines are parallel to the spine of theanimal. It is also typical that such substantially parallel lines offormulation are applied simultaneously within the region of the animalextending from one flank to the opposing flank. This concept of‘simultaneous application’ is important as one single application of theformulation will effectively cover the required area of the animal'sbody sought to be treated, rather than a multitude of separate singleapplications.

[0038] More typically at least one line of applied formulation issubstantially along the backline of the animal, with at least two othersubstantially parallel lines of simultaneously applied formulationextending down the length of the animal's body at the width across theflanks of the animal.

[0039] Typically this region extending from one flank to the opposingflank can also be described as the region extending down the backline ofthe animal but having a width which is the width of the animal's sacrumor alternatively, the mid side width of the animal at the level of the10^(th)/11^(th) rib. This area is therefore typically covered byparallel lines of formulation which are applied simultaneously to thewhole area.

[0040] Typically, the domestic animal is selected from the groupconsisting of sheep, cattle, horses, llamas, alpacas, rabbits, cats,dogs, pigs or goats. More typically, the animal is a sheep, cow, pig orgoat.

[0041] Typically, the ectoparasites include, but are not limited tomembers of the Arthropoda order Diptera, Phthiraptera and Acarina andparasites and other insects which are parasitic during all of their lifecycle or only part of their lifecycle, such as only the larval or adultstage.

[0042] More typically, the ectoparasites include blowfly, lice, ked,mites, itch mite, scab, screw worm, bot flies, ticks, fleas and relatedarthropod pests.

[0043] Typically, the active agents used in the formulations applied inthe methods of the present invention are commercially available andinclude insect growth regulators such as diflubenzuron, triflumuron andcyromazine; organophosphates including diazinon, fenchlorphos,chlorpyrifos, dichlorvos, malathion; amitraz; synthetic pyrethroidsincluding flumethrin, deltamethrin, cypermethrin, phenothrin,cyfluthrin, tralomethrin, permethrin; amidines, carbamates, rotenone;ivermectin and other macro cyclic lactones including moxidectin;avermectin, doramectin and eprinomectin; tetramisole; levamisole andspinosyns.

[0044] Also typically, formulations which can be used in the presentinvention can be any agricultural chemical based formulations, moretypically such formulations can take any one of the following forms:solutions being organic solvent based such as fatty acid esters,emulsifiable concentrates based on solvents such as high aromatic napthaor organic solvents such as fatty acids, suspension concentrates,wettable powders, water dispersible granules, microemulsions, lotionsand aqueous solutions.

[0045] Typically, a ‘pour-on’ is applied to sheep immediately aftershearing.

[0046] Typically, any animal treated according to the present inventionis yarded with other animals for at least a day after the treatment inorder to ensure physical contact between the animals and therebymaximise movement of the active.

[0047] More typically, the treated animals are yarded together for atime period between 1 day to 5 days, more typically 3 days in order toensure physical contact between them.

[0048] In another embodiment of the second aspect of the presentinvention, there is provided a method for the control of endoparasiteson domestic animals which comprises a topical application of aneffective amount of a finished pesticidal formulation to a region of theexternal surface of an animal extending from one flank to the opposingflank.

[0049] Topical ‘pour-on’ application of parasiticides for the control ofendoparasites is well known and is thought to act systemically viaabsorption of the parasiticide through the skin or hide of the animal.

[0050] Typically, such endoparasites include nematodes and helminthssuch as heartworm, lungworm, roundworm, hookworm and whipworm.

[0051] More typically, such endoparasites include:

[0052] i) Endoparasites in horses including:

[0053]Parascaris equorum, Habronema spp., Strongylus spp., Oxyuris equi,Gastrophilus spp., Trichonema spp., Triodontophorus spp., Strongyloideswesteri, Habronema spp.

[0054] ii) Endoparasites in sheep and goats including

[0055] Paramphistomum spp., Monezia spp., Haemonchus contortus,Trichostrongylus spp., Ostertagia spp., Cooperia spp., Nematodirus spp.,Oesophagostomum spp., Chabertia ovina, Trichuris spp., Fasciola spp.,Muellerius capillaris, Dictyocaulus spp., Oestrus ovis.

[0056] iii) Endoparasites in cattle including

[0057] Paramphistomum spp., Monezia spp., Haemonchus spp.,Trichostrongylus spp., Ostertagia spp., Cooperia spp., Nematodirus spp.,Bunostomum phlebotomum, Stronyloides papillosus,

[0058] Oesophagostomum spp., Chabertia ovina, Trichuris spp., Fasciolaspp., Schistosoma spp., Muellerius capillaris, Dictyocaulus spp.,Oestrus ovis.

[0059] iv) Endoparasites in pigs including

[0060]Ascaris suum, Strongyloides spp., Trichinella spiralis, Trichurissuis, Oesphagostomum spp., Schistosoma spp., Paragonimus spp.,Metastrongylus spp.

[0061] v) Endoparasites—helminths in dogs and cats including

[0062] Spirometra spp., Taenia spp., Echinococcus granulosus,Diplopylidium spp., Toxacsaris leonina, Toxocara spp., Stongyloidesspp., Ancylostoma spp., Uncinaria stenocephala, Necator americanus,Trichuris spp., Spirocerca spp., Schistosoma spp., Dirofilaria immitis,Brugia spp., Capillaria plica, Paragonimus spp., Aelurostrongylus spp.,Filaroides spp., Lingualuta serrata, Dipetalonema spp.

[0063] More typically, a pesticidal ‘pour-on’ formulation of the presentinvention acts to control ked (Melangophagus ovinus), biting louse(Bovicola ovis), sucking louse (L. Pedalis, Linognathus ovillus, L.Africanus, L. Stenopsis), sheep scab mite (Psoroptes ovis), itch mite(Psorergates ovis), mange mite (Chorioptes ovis), screw worms, ticks(Boophilus spp. Ixodes spp. Haemophlysalis spp. Ambylomma spp.Dermacentor spp. Hyalomma spp. Rhipicephalus spp) bot flies (Oestrusovis) and blowflies (Lucilia, Calliphora, Chrysomyia spp.) in sheep,acts to control biting louse (D. limbata, D. crassipes, D. caprae) andsucking louse in goats, acts to control biting lice (Bovicola breviceps)in camelids, acts to control sucking louse (Linognathus vituli,Haematopinus eurysternus, Solenopetes capillatus) and biting louse(Bovicola bovis) on catttle as well as flies (eg Musca domestica,Haemlatobia irritrans, Stomoxys calcitrans), screw worms (Chrysomyabezziana, Callitroga hominivorax), midges, mosquitos, mites (Chorioptesbovis, Sarcoptes bovis, Psorpotes ovis, Demodex bovis), and ticks(Boophilus spp, Ixodes spp, Haemophysalis spp, Amblyomma spp,Dermacentor spp. Hyalomma spp, Rhipicephalus spp, Otobius megnini), actsto control ticks, mites (Choriptes equi, Psoroptes equi, Sarcoptes equi,Demodex equi), lice (Damalinia equi, Haematopinus asini), fleas,Dipterida (Culicoides spp, Simulium spp and other flies) in horses andacts to control ticks, mites (including Sarcoptes suis, Demodex suis),lice, fleas and Dipteridia in pigs.

[0064] Active endoparasiticides typically include the anthelminticstetramisole and its laevo isomer levamisole.

[0065] Typically the pesticidal formulation is applied as stated abovein respect of the treatment of external parasites, namely it occurs at awidth covering the flanks of the animal, this enables the natural forceof gravity to act such that the formulation migrates down the flanks ofan animal so treated thus resulting in a good migratory effect of theformulation.

[0066] Again, while not wishing to be bound by theory, it is postulatedthat such methodology of so applying the pesticidal formulation in anarea across the back of the animal from one flank to the other,increases the rate of absorption or quantity of active migrating throughthe skin. The larger the surface area covered by the formulation, thegreater should be the absorption through the skin and the more effectivethe elimination of endoparasites.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0067] Preferred forms of the present invention will now be described,by way of examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings inwhich:

[0068]FIG. 1 is a schematic, front view of a first embodiment of adevice for applying a finished liquid pesticidal formulation to anexternal surface of a domestic animal;

[0069]FIG. 2 is a partial, schematic, cross sectional, front view of asecond embodiment of a device for applying a finished liquid pesticidalformulation to an external surface of a domestic animal;

[0070]FIG. 3 is a schematic, front view of a third embodiment of adevice for applying a finished liquid pesticidal formulation to anexternal surface of a domestic animal;

[0071]FIG. 4 is a schematic, front view of a fourth embodiment of adevice for applying a finished liquid pesticidal formulation to anexternal surface of a domestic animal;

[0072]FIG. 5 is a photographic representation of the application of afinished pesticidal pour on formulation to a shorn sheep using anembodiment of a device according to the present invention;

[0073]FIG. 6 is a photographic representation of the dorsal and flankarea of a sheep which has been treated according to an embodiment of themethod of the present invention;

[0074]FIGS. 7A and 7B are representations of the substantially parallellines (bandwidth patterns) which result along the length of the sheep'sspine in the area bounded by its flanks following treatment inaccordance with one embodiment of the invention;

[0075]FIGS. 8A and 8B are front and underside views respectively of afifth embodiment of a device for applying a finished liquid pesticidalformulation to an external surface of a domestic animal; and

[0076]FIG. 9 is a schematic side view showing positioning of the deviceshown in FIGS. 8A and 8B relative to a larger and a smaller animal.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0077]FIG. 1 shows a schematic, front view of a first embodiment of adevice 10 for applying a finished liquid pesticidal formulation to anexternal surface of a domestic animal. The device 10 is preferablymanufactured from stainless steel and includes a manifold 12 formed froman outlet pipe 14 and an inlet pipe 16. A threaded inlet fitting 18 isattached to the inlet pipe 16. The fitting 18 permits connection to apressurised source of the liquid pesticidal formulation, such as adosing gun or other commercially available applicator or pump dispenser.

[0078] The outlet pipe 14 has five liquid pesticidal formulation outlets20 a, 20 b, 20 c, 20 d and 20 e, which are each respectively spacedapart from adjacent outlets by 20 mm, 50 mm, 50 mm and 20 mm. Theoutlets 20 a to 20 e are 0.75 mm diameter holes drilled through the wallof the hollow outlet pipe 14.

[0079] The inlet pipe 16, the outlet pipe 14 and the fitting 18 are allhollow and in fluid communication with each other. Accordingly, when theliquid pesticidal formulation is forced through the fitting 18 ittravels through the inlet pipe 16 to the outlet pipe 14 and so out theoutlets 20 a to 20 e, as indicated by dashed lines 22.

[0080] In use, the device 10 is positioned with the middle outlet 20 csubstantially above the spine of an animal, which has the effect ofpositioning the outermost outlets 20 a, 20 b, 20 d and 20 esubstantially above the flanks of the animal.

[0081] Movement of the device along the animal from its neck down itsbackline to its tail base delivers the pesticidal formulation from theoutlets of the device onto the external surface of the animal in theregion bounded by the external outlets of the device and effectivelyresults in coverage of an area from one flank of the animal to its otherflank by the formulation. The formulation applied via the outlets of thedevice can migrate to a small degree from the sites of application andcan dribble down the flanks of the animal.

[0082]FIG. 2 shows a partial, schematic, cross sectional, front view ofa second embodiment of a device 30 for applying a finished liquidpesticidal formulation to an external surface of a domestic animal.Similar to the first embodiment of the device 10, the device 30 includesa manifold formed from an outlet pipe 32 and an inlet pipe 34. However,the outlet pipe 32 is length adjustable by virtue of it beingconstructed from a female inner portion 32 a to which are threadablyconnected a pair (only one shown) of male outer portions 32 b.

[0083] The inner portion 32 a includes a single tapered or ‘fan jet’outlet 36. The inner end of the outer portions 32 b includes an O-ringseal 38 against the interior of the inner portion 32 a. The outer end ofthe outer portions 32 b includes a knurled section 40 to enhancegripping of same and a pair of fan jet outlets 42.

[0084] Relative rotation of the outer portions 32 b relative to theinner portions 32 a, as indicated by arrow 44, allows the overall lengthof the outlet pipe 34 (and thus the distance between the outlets 36 and42) to be adjusted, as indicated by arrow 46, to suit the particularsize of animal being treated.

[0085] In use, similar to the first embodiment, the outlet 36 ispositioned substantially above the spine of an animal, and the length ofthe outlet pipe 34 is adjusted to position the outlets 42 substantiallyabove the flanks of the animal. In the embodiment shown, the distancebetween the outermost or end outlets 40 is adjustable between 100 and200 mm. As with the first embodiment, when the liquid pesticidalformulation is forced through the inlet pipe 34 it travels to the outletpipe 32 and so out the outlets 36 and 40, as indicated by fanned lines48.

[0086]FIGS. 3 and 4 show schematic, cross sectional, front views ofthird and fourth embodiments of a device 50 and 60 for applying afinished liquid pesticidal formulation to an external surface of adomestic animal. Similar to the first embodiment of the device 10, thedevices 50 and 60 includes a manifold formed from an outlet pipe 52,62and an inlet pipe 54, 64. However, the outlet pipe 52 is bent at theends (by about 10 degrees), and the outlet pipe 62 is curved, tosubstantially replicate the shape of the animal's back.

[0087] In these embodiments, the spacing (in mm) between successive(0.75 mm diameter) outlets 55, 65 from one end of the manifold to theother is approximately: 20, 60, 60, 20.

[0088]FIGS. 8A and 8B respectively show front and underside views of afifth embodiment of a device 70 for applying a finished liquidpesticidal formulation to an external surface of a domestic animal.Similar to the third and fourth embodiments of the device 50 and 60, thedevice 70 includes a manifold formed from an outlet pipe 72 and an inletpipe 74 with a connecting fitting 75. The outlet pipe 72 includes twoangled outlet pipe portions, 72 a and 72 b, to substantially replicatethe shape of the animal's back. In this embodiment, the spacing (in mm)between successive (0.75 mm diameter) outlets 76 from one end of themanifold to the other is approximately: 40,75,75,40.

[0089] The bent/curved/angled outlet pipes of the devices 50, 60 and 70are designed to replicate the shape of the animal. Accordingly, with alow viscosity pesticidal formulation and small fan nozzles at each ofthe orifices the material will be sprayed on to the flanks of theanimal, thus giving wider distribution on application. With heavier, ismore viscous formulations, the straight outlet pipe is typically usedbecause such formulations cannot be pushed out under pressure to form afan pattern. The formulation will simply fall from the orifices in theoutlet pipe substantially vertically onto the animal's back and flanks.In both cases, backline and flank application will be made.

[0090]FIG. 9 shows the preferred positioning of the device 70 relativeto a larger animal 77 (eg. 35 kg sheep) and a smaller animal 78 (eg. 15kg sheep). The distance between the device 70 and the animal isinversely proportional to the animal's size in order to ensure theformulation is directed to the animal's backline.

[0091]FIGS. 5 and 6 show substantially parallel lines resulting alongthe dorsal and flank area of a sheep which has been treated according toan embodiment of the method of the present invention using an embodimentof a device according to the present invention.

[0092] The external surface of the sheep which has been treated, extendsacross the dorsal midline in a width of about 180 mm from one flank ofthe sheep to the other flank. A single application of a device accordingto one embodiment of the present invention covers such areasimultaneously delivering pesticidal formulation in the form ofsubstantially parallel lines.

[0093]FIGS. 7A and 7B again show the substantially parallel lines(bandwidth patterns) which result along the length of the sheep's spinein the area on either side of the dorsal midline bounded by its flanksfollowing treatment where one embodiment of the device of the presentinvention delivers a pesticidal formulation from end outlets which are adistance of about 180 mm apart.

[0094] The method of treatment or prophylaxis of ectoparasitic and/orparasitic infestations in domestic animals according to the presentinvention is now further described with reference to the followingnon-limiting examples.

EXAMPLES Example 1

[0095] Objectives: To determine the effect of application band width andstocking density on spinosad pour-on efficacy for control of lice insheep immediately off-shears.

[0096] Treatments: All sheep were treated with spinosad at 16 mg/sheep(equivalent to 0.4 mg/kg live weight). This dose was chosen atapproximately {fraction (1/20)} of the fill efficacious dose to allowdiscrimination between treatments. Treatments were applied using eithera band width of 30 mm or 180 mm. Sheep were kept in pens either alone orin groups of 6. Lice counts were made on days 0, 14, 28, 42 and 56 daysafter treatment.

[0097] Design: Four (4) treatment groups of sheep were used in thistrial comprising the 2×2 factorial combinations of a route ofapplication factor (backline (B) or backline plus flank (BF)) and agrouping factor (grouped in pens of 6 sheep (G) or single pens (S)).There were 2 group pens and 6 single pens for each of the B and BFtreatments, so twice as many sheep in groups as in single pens. Therewas also a control group of 6 sheep in single pens. The sets of 6 sheepin each treatment and group pen and the control were balanced forinitial lice counts, so that each such group commenced the trial withcounts that had similar means and ranges.

[0098] Statistical analyses: The method of generalised linear models foroverdisposed Poisson data using a logarithmic link function was used toanalyse the lice counts at each sampling. Two contrasts betweentreatments (BF-B for route and S-G for grouping) and their interaction(BF-BxS-G) were assessed in each analysis. The logarithm of initialcounts was used as a covariate to reduce residual variation, but was notused to calculate adjusted means. The covariate was significantthroughout the trial (P<0.05, at least). In an initial analysis for eachsampling, random pen effects were included in the model to check for thepresence of correlation among counts for sheep within groups, but as nopen effects were detected on any occasion, they were ignored insubsequent analyses.

[0099] Results: The route contrast BF-B was significant and negative ondays 14, 28 and 42 (P<0.05, 0.01, 0.05 respectively) and thereafter wassignificant at the 10% level (P<0.06 on day 56, P<0.09 on day 70).Although the magnitude of the contrast on days 56 and 70 was similar tothat for day 28, the variability among counts was higher. On eachoccasion mean lice counts were lower for the BF treatment than the Btreatment. The grouping contrast S-G was significant and positive fromdays 28 to 70 (P<0.01, 0.01, 0.05, 0.05 respectively). On each occasion,mean lice counts for G were lower than for S. The interaction BF-B x S-Gwas negligible on each occasion.

[0100] Tabulated below are the route and grouping contrasts at eachsampling (on the log scale) with standard errors, together with meancounts for the treatment and control groups and % efficacy estimates inparentheses for the treatments relative to the control group. Day 14 Day28 Day 42 Day 56 Day 70 Contrast BF-B −0.286 ± 0.130 −0.467 ± 0.150−0.660 ± 0.254 −0.504 ± 0.257 −0.490 ± 0.279 S-G   0.099 ± 0.085   0.260± 0.090   0.408 ± 0.143   0.368 ± 0.155   0.365 ± 0.169 Mean CountsControl 659.0 707.8 725.8 756.7 743.7 B, G 60.8 (90.8) 30.9 (95.6) 17.5(97.6) 16.1 (97.9) 27.7 (96.3) BF, G 25.8 (96.1) 8.9 (98.7) 3.4 (99.5)5.9 (99.2) 5.7 (99.2) B, S 63.7 (90.3) 57.7 (91.8) 54.2 (92.5) 48.7(93.6) 65.8 (91.2) BF, S 52.8 (92.0) 29.2 (95.9) 17.0 (97.7) 17.7 (97.7)34.2 (95.4)

Example 2

[0101] Objectives: To compare the amount and rate of diffusion of ¹⁴Clabelled zeta-cypermethrin from the dorsal midline of sheep when appliedin a conventional formulation and a range of test excipients. AnimalDescription: Animal: Sheep Breed/Strain: Merino Sex: Castrate male orfemale Description: 5 months plus wool, all of the same genetic line,plain bodied History: No synthetic pyrethroid treatment in the previous3 months. A solid vaccination history is essential. Internal parasitesmust be controlled. Age: Mature Weight: Less than 50 kg

Study Design and Animal Allotment

[0102] Treatments: 10 mg/ml zeta-cypermethrin spiked with 100 μCizeta-cypermethrin labelled with ¹⁴C in an emulsifiable concentrate,Greenfield solvent based pour-on formulations 1, 2 and 3 (groups 1,2,3,4in “drug formulations”).

[0103] Design: 3 sheep per treatment group, 4 groups=12 sheep. Sheepwere randomly to allocated to each treatment group.

Trial Facilities

[0104] Animals were acclimatised to the diet and housed in metabolismcrates for 1 week prior to treatment. On day 0 sheep were removed fromtheir cages, shorn, weighed, treated and returned to individualmetabolism crates in order to restrain each sheep until conclusion ofthe test. The sheep were shorn using an electric shearing machine on thesame day as the treatment.

Drug Formulations

[0105] Group 1-100 mg/ml zeta-cypermethrin in a conventional ECformulation, was spiked with 100 μCi ¹⁴C-labelled zeta-cypermethrin. TheEC was diluted 1:10 in water and the resulting emulsion applied todeliver 10 mg/ml zeta-cypermethrin.

[0106] Group 2-10 mg/ml zeta-cypermethrin in Greenfield formulation Ipour-on vehicle was spiked with 100 μCi ¹⁴C-labelled zeta-cypermethrin.

[0107] Group 3-10 mg/ml zeta-cypermethrin in Greenfield formulation IIpour-on vehicle was spiked with 100 μCi ¹⁴C-labelled zeta-cypermethrin.

[0108] Group 4-10 mg/ml zeta-cypermethrin in Greenfield formulation IIIpour-on vehicle was spiked with 100 μCi ¹⁴C-labelled zeta-cypermethrin.

Administration

[0109] The sheep were shorn immediately prior to treatment and markedalong the dorsal midline with a waterproof pen. Parallel horizontallines were drawn on the left and right sides of the sheep 2, 7.5 and 15cm from the dorsal midline towards the ventral midline. The meridianswere marked with a series of dots or a line and the measurements weremade using a tape measure.

[0110] 1 ml of test article per 5 kg body weight was applied evenlyalong the dorsal midline from the withers to the tail base. This wasachieved using a syringe delivering a fine constant spray of each testarticle formulation. Any obvious runs of test article down an animal'sback were marked to be avoided at sampling.

Sampling Procedure

[0111] At 1, 2, 4, 8, 11 and 14 days after treatment, wool was clippedfrom 3 12×12 mm squares chosen at random along each meridian. Sampleswere taken from the 15 cm meridian first, followed by the 7.5 cmmeridian and finally from the 2 cm meridian. Wool samples from each leftand right pair of meridians were pooled and placed into a preweighed,labelled scintillation vial. Swabs from each pair of meridians werepooled. From each animal on each sampling day the following samples weretaken:

[0112] 3 wool samples from each 15 cm meridian pooled;

[0113] 3 wool samples from each 7.5 cm meridian pooled;

[0114] 3 wool samples from each 2 cm meridian pooled;

[0115] 3 clipped sites, 3 swab samples from each 15 cm meridian pooled;

[0116] 3 clipped sites, 3 swab samples from each 7.5 cm meridian pooled;

[0117] 3 clipped sites, 3 swab samples from each 2 cm meridian pooled.

[0118] At day 14 after treatment all wool from the midline was collectedand placed in several scintillation vials. The bare skin was swabbedusing a piece of gauze soaked in solvent and the gauze was then placedin a vial.

Results

[0119] Group 1: Zeta+Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC)

[0120] Results are set out in Table 1. The three sheep in this groupwere sheep 431, sheep 171 and sheep 103. This formulation contains about10% solvent which has a relatively high boiling range and a distinctstrong odour.

[0121] Sheep 431: All the values obtained from sheep 431 were includedin the final calculations. This sheep gave higher levels than the other2 sheep in this group particularly at the 2 cm meridian.

[0122] Sheep 171: On day 5 this sheep was found out of its crate. Thefront 1.5 cm of the backline treatment had been smudged. On day 4 the 2cm meridian sample had a very high level most likely caused by aformulation run at the time of application and this sample was excluded.

[0123] Sheep 103: This sheep had 2 small runs of formulation. The 2 cmmeridian wool samples for days 1, 11 and 14 were contaminated by runsand were excluded.

[0124] Overall the backline remained intact for this group.

[0125] Group 2: Zeta+Greenfield I

[0126] Results are set out in Table 2. The three sheep in this groupwere sheep 290, sheep 609 and sheep 108. This formulation contained asolvent/oil which stripped the grease from the backline to form a whitebleached area at the treatment site. The skin at the backline formed athick hard layer.

[0127] Sheep 290 and 609: These sheep had either smudging or rubbingafter day 2. The formulation appeared to spread well because of itsability to dissolve grease and move strongly to the 2 cm meridian andbeyond. However, due to its effect on the skin and bleaching of thewool, the formulation was considered unsuitable and re,salts were notincluded in the final calculations.

[0128] Results from sheep 108 showed a high retention in the 2 cm zone.

[0129] Group 3: Zeta+Greenfield II

[0130] Results are set out in Table 3. The three sheep in this groupwere sheep 649, sheep 030 and sheep 119. The formulation contained astrong solvent/oil which attacked the rubber in the syringe.

[0131] Sheep 649: This formulation exchanged well with the grease andmoved rapidly to the 2 cm meridian. Samples from this line had a veryhigh count but lower levels were obtained from the other meridians. Thismay be attributed to the solvent vehicle which facilitated thedispersion of zeta to the 2 cm meridian but after apparent solventevaporation there was little additional movement. On day 8 there wasrubbing close to the upper meridian which may have affected the levelsfound in the wool samples after that day.

[0132] Sheep 030: On day 4 the front 5 cm of the backline appeared to besmudged and after this day extremely high counts were observed at the 2cm meridian. From day 4 the 7.5 and 15 cm meridians appeared to haveextremely high counts compared to the other 2 sheep in this group.Smudging would appear to be the most likely cause of this apparentspread. The 15 cm meridian samples for days 8-14 and samples from the7.5 cm meridian for days 4-14 were ignored.

[0133] Sheep 119: On day 4 a smudge was observed in the front 2-5 cm ofthe backline. Except for days 1 and 2, the 2 cm meridian samples gavevery high concentrations which were inconsistent with the very lowlevels obtained for the other 2 meridians. Day 14 values were excludedas the levels of zeta seemed to be contaminated.

[0134] Group 4: Zeta Greenfield III

[0135] Results are set out in Table 4. The three sheep in this groupwere sheep 316, sheep 611 and sheep 428. The formulation contained astrong solvent/oil which attacked the rubber in the syringe.

[0136] Sheep 316: On days 1 and 2 zeta moved very slowly to allmeridians. On day 4 a 2 cm meridian sample was taken too close to thebackline and the result was therefore ignored. On days 8, 11 and 14,zeta moved very slowly to the 7.5 cm and 15 cm meridians.

[0137] Sheep 611: On the treatment day this sheep fell to the floor andthe backline was smudged. On day 2 excessive smudging was noticed andprevented sampling from at least some of the sites. On days 1 and 2 the2 cm meridian sample had a high count due to the smudging and these wereignored. On day 4, the 2 and 7.5 cm wool samples were inadvertentlycombined.

[0138] Sheep 428: On the treatment day there was a 2 cm run. On day 1there was possible rubbing of the backline and the high counts wereignored. On day 1, the 2 cm wool sample was clipped too close to thebackline and these samples were excluded. The 2 cm meridian sites forall subsequent days had an excessively high count due to smudging andthese results were ignored. On days 1,2 and 4 the 15 cm and 7.5 cmmeridian samples were mistakenly reversed.

Conclusion

[0139] After application of zetacypermethrin along the backline of sheepusing four different pour-on formulations, spread of active material waslargely confined to within the 2 cm meridian lines. This spread probablyoccurred as a result of the organic solvents present in each of theformulations. There was little spread of zeta-cypermethrin to the 7.5and 15 cm meridians during the 14 days of the study.

1. A device for applying a finished liquid pesticidal formulation to anexternal surface of a domestic animal, the device comprising an inletand a plurality of spaced apart outlets, wherein the device is adaptedsuch that when the middle of the device is positioned substantiallyabove the spine of the animal, at least one outlet is positionedsubstantially above each flank of the animal.
 2. The device as claimedin claim 1, further comprising a manifold with a substantially hollowinterior and wherein the outlets are formed as openings in the manifoldthat are in fluid communication with the interior.
 3. The device asclaimed in claim 2, wherein the inlet is a threaded fitting, attached tothe manifold and also in fluid communication with the interior.
 4. Thedevice as claimed in claim 2, wherein the manifold includes an outletportion having the outlets therein and an inlet portion having the inletthereon.
 5. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the outlets areholes.
 6. The device as claimed in claim 5, wherein the holes range fromabout 0.25 mm to 1.5 mm in diameter.
 7. The device as claimed in claim6, wherein the holes are 0.75 mm in diameter,
 8. The device as claimedin claim 5, wherein the holes are drilled through a wall of themanifold.
 9. The device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the outlets areformed in the manifold by mechanical punching.
 10. The device as claimedin claim 4, wherein the outlets are fan jets or other types of spraynozzles,
 11. The device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the manifold isformed from straight pipe.
 12. The device as claimed in claim 2, whereinthe manifold is bent, curved or angled to substantially replicate theshape of an animal's back between its flanks.
 13. The device as claimedin claim 2 wherein, the manifold is length adjustable.
 14. The device asclaimed in claim 13, wherein the length adjustable manifold includes afemale portion threadably connected to a male portion, whereby relativerotation of the male portion relative to the female portion alters theoverall length of the manifold.
 15. The device as claimed in claim 14,wherein the length adjustable manifold includes a female inner portionwith a male outer portion at each end.
 16. The device as claimed inclaim 15, wherein a single outlet is provided in the female innerportion and a pair of outlets are preferably provided in each of themale outer portions.
 17. The device as claimed in claim 16, wherein theouter portions include a knurled section for gripping.
 18. The device asclaimed in claim 2, wherein the manifold includes at least threeoutlets.
 19. The device as claimed in claim 18, wherein the manifoldincludes between three and seven outlets.
 20. The device as claimed inclaim 19, wherein the manifold includes five outlets.
 21. The device asclaimed in claim 2, wherein the manifold includes a pair of outletsadjacent the ends of the manifold and one or more outlets immediate theend outlets.
 22. The device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the spacing(in mm) between successive outlets from one end of the manifold to theother are approximately: 15, 15, 15, 15, 15, 15; 20, 50, 50, 20; 20, 60,20, 60, 20; 20, 60, 60, 20; or 40, 75, 75,
 40. 23. The device as claimedin claim 2, wherein the minimum and maximum distances between endoutlets are 100 mm and 900 mm respectively.
 24. The device as claimed inclaim 23, wherein the minimum and maximum distances are 100 mm and 600mm respectively.
 25. The device as claimed in claim 24, wherein theminimum and maximum distances are 100 mm and 400 mm respectively.
 26. Amethod for the treatment or prophylaxis of parasitic infestations,including ectoparasitic and/or endoparasitic infestations, of domesticanimals comprising topically administering to said animal a pour-onpesticidal formulation to a region of the external surface of an animalextending from one flank to the opposing flank.
 27. The method of claim26 wherein the animal is selected from the group consisting of sheep,cattle, horses, llamas, alpacas, rabbits, cats, dogs, pigs and goats.28. The method of claim 26 wherein the ectoparasitic infestation iscaused by an ectoparasite selected from members of the Arthropoda orderDiptera, Phthiraptera and Acarina.
 29. The method of claim 28 whereinthe ectoparasite is selected from the group consisting of blowfly, lice,mites, ked, itch mite, scab, screw worm, bot flies, ticks, fleas andrelated arthropod pests.
 30. The method of claim 26 wherein theendoparasitic infestation is caused by an endoparasite selected fromnematodes and helminths.
 31. The method of claim 26 wherein the regionof the animal covers the backline of the animal and extends outwardsfrom the backline towards each flank.
 32. The method of claim 26 whereinthe width of the region of a sheep or goat to which the formulation isapplied is between about 100 to 300 mm.
 33. The method of claim 26wherein the area of the region of a sheep or goat to which theformulation is applied covers about 100 mm to 200 mm on each side of thebackline towards the ventral midline.
 34. The method of claim 26 whereinthe width of the region of a bovine or horse to which the formulation isapplied is between about 100 to 800 mm.
 35. The method of claim 26wherein the width of the region of a pig to which the formulation isapplied is between about 100 to 400 mm.
 36. The method of claim 26wherein the formulation is applied simultaneously in discretesubstantially parallel lines in the region of the animal's external bodysurface bounded by its flanks.
 37. The method of claim 26 wherein theformulation is applied simultaneously in discrete lines which aresubstantially parallel to the spine of the animal.
 38. The method ofclaim 26 wherein at least one line of formulation is appliedsubstantially along the backline of the animal, with at least two othersubstantially parallel lines of formulation simultaneously applied indiscrete lines extending down the length of the animal's body at thewidth across the flanks of the animal.
 39. The method of claim 26wherein any one or more active agents used in the formulations appliedare selected from the group consisting of insect growth regulators suchas diflubenzuron, triflumuron and cyromazine; organophosphates includingdiazinon, fenchlorphos, chlorpyrifos, dichlorvos, malathion; amitraz;synthetic pyrethroids including flumethrin, deltamethrin, cypermethrin,phenothrin, cyfluthrin, tralomethrin, permethrin; amidines, carbamates,rotenone; ivermectin and other macrocyclic lactones includingmoxidectin; avermectin, doramectin and eprinomectin; tetramisole;levamisole and spinosyns.
 40. The method of claim 26 wherein any animaltreated is yarded with other animals for at least a day after thetreatment in order to ensure physical contact between the animals 41.Use of an endoparasiticide and/or ectoparasiticide for the preparationof a pesticidal formulation for the treatment or prophylaxis ofparasitic infestations, including ectoparasitic and/or endoparasiticinfestations, of domestic animals comprising topically administering tosaid animal said formulation to a region of the external surface of ananimal extending from one flank to the opposing flank.